13 Jun 8 Tips to Reduce Cooling Costs in Your San Antonio Home

Although our Indiana summers can be warm, you don’t have to break the bank keeping your home cool. There are ways to maintain comfort and to reduce cooling costs at the same time. Following are eight tips to live by this summer.

Vent moisture. Humidity in your home makes you feel warmer, so whenever cooking or showering, turn on the exhaust fan. If you don’t have one, crack the window.

Prevent solar heat gain. Shut blinds and drapes in the heat of the day, or install window film to cut down on radiant heat entering your home. Some window coverings allow natural light to enter but prevent heat gain.

Don’t use appliances that heat the home. Cook outdoors with your gas grill instead of the oven, or use the microwave to cook simple summer meals.

Install a programmable thermostat. Setting a cooling schedule that raises the temperature a few degrees when the family is sleeping or away from home can save you as much as 10 percent on your air conditioning bills this summer. A programmable thermostat will help you keep to your schedule, so that you don’t have to remember to reset the thermostat before you go to bed or before you leave home.

Use fans. Whether it’s a portable model or mounted in the ceiling, fans will help you cut your energy use in summer by several degrees. Fans create a wind that makes us feel cooler, even without turning the thermostat down.

Seal ductwork. Your ducts are key to utilizing your conditioned air efficiently. Make sure all holes are repaired and all segments sealed tightly so you don’t waste energy.

Insulate and air seal. Insulate your attic to keep the sun from overheating it in the summer, compromising your cooling efforts. Seal cracks and gaps around windows and doors with weatherstripping and sealant.

Buy Energy Star appliances.Energy Star, the government’s efficiency rating system for appliances, can guide you to the most efficient air conditioner choices for your home.